Vaccines are the single most cost-effective way to protect your dog from serious, often fatal diseases. In Miami’s warm, humid climate, exposure risk to parasites and bacterial infections runs higher than in many other parts of the country, which is why your dog’s vaccination plan should be built around lifestyle and local risk — not a one-size-fits-all schedule.
Core vaccines are recommended for every dog regardless of lifestyle. These include Rabies (which is required by Florida law), DAPP (distemper, adenovirus, parvovirus, parainfluenza), and a regular Bordetella booster for any dog that visits boarding, daycare, dog parks, or grooming. Most puppies start their series at 6–8 weeks and receive boosters every 3–4 weeks until 16 weeks of age.
Lifestyle vaccines we frequently recommend in Kendall include Leptospirosis, Canine Influenza, and Lyme. Leptospirosis in particular is increasingly diagnosed in South Florida because the bacteria thrive in standing water — common after summer storms — and can spread from wildlife to dogs and even people.
Once your dog is an adult, most core vaccines move to a one-to-three-year cadence depending on the product. We use vaccine titers in some cases for owners who prefer to confirm immunity rather than re-boost on a fixed schedule. The right plan is the one your veterinarian builds with you during a wellness exam.
If you have questions about your dog’s vaccination schedule, call our Kendall team at (305) 384-6821. We’ll review your dog’s records, lifestyle, and travel plans and design a plan that protects without over-vaccinating.
